Talented, young Richmond midfielder Brandon Ellis is embracing the magnitude of the challenge that will confront the Tigers at the MCG on Friday night when they take on Hawthorn.

The Hawks are red-hot favourites to capture a third consecutive premiership this year after winning their past eight games – the last three of them by a combined total of 299 points (v Fremantle, Sydney and Carlton).

Get your tickets for Friday night’s match between the Tigers and Hawks at the MCG

Ellis, however, isn’t the least bit daunted by coming up against the powerful Hawthorn combination . . .

“It’s always good playing against the best teams because you test out where you are and how far you’ve come,” Ellis said on this week’s edition of ‘Talking Tigers’.

“Hawthorn have been on fire the past three or four games, so we couldn’t have got them at a better time.  It’ll probably be a finals-like game.

“Personally, I love playing against the best teams.  

“I find that I get up better for the bigger games, especially Friday night footy.  I love Friday night footy. 

“But it’s going to be a massive test. 

“I literally can’t wait.”